Apollo Suns play to a crowded lawn in front of the Esplanade as part of Medicine Hat JazzFest in this 2023 file photo. JazzFest 2025 has unveiled another star-studded, award-winning lineup, kicking off six days of entertainment on June 17.--NEWS FILE PHOTO
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The smooth sounds of the saxophone will fill the roadways and sidewalks downtown as Medicine Hat is ready to welcome a variety of local, Canadian and international artists during the 29th anniversary of JazzFest.
The six-day music festival kicks off June 17 and wraps up on June 22, and includes performances at the Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre, as well as a variety of clubs and pubs around town, and free outdoor performances held outside the Esplanade and Public Library.
The festival will begin with a performance by JUNO-nominated drummer Sanah Kadoura, who has been recognized as a rising force in the international jazz music scene since the release of the 2023 album Duality.
This year’s lineup also includes New York City jazz star Benny Benack III, who will be joined by Canadian pianist Anthony D’Alessandro with a swing and soul music style.
The Carl Mayotte Quintet will perform on the final day of the festival, known as one of the country’s top jazz fusion bands with their bold and modern sound.
Dutch vocalist Henk Kraaijeveld will lead his quintet in a performance that will include improvisation and emotional storytelling, bringing a fresh perspective to the European jazz tradition.
Additional performances include Montuno West, a high-energy Latin jazz band, piano great Lorraine Desmarias paying tribute to Bill Evans and local jazz artist Cheryl Fisher, known for her expressive vocals, returning with her quintet.
CKUA Radio host Kate Stevens is also scheduled to play a gig at the Super T Aviation Hanger 7 with her fresh take on R&B, soul and jazz, and the Shuffle Demons will return to the Hat with their high-octane “funk-fuelled chaos.”
Additionally ,a special performance with two of Alberta’s most respected jazz educators and performers, drummer Tyler Homby and trombonist Audry Ochoa, will join forces for a one-time performance.
The festival will also include outdoor performances by Sara Neufeld with Ray of Sun Drum Circles and Christian Ferguson.
This year JazzFest is also featuring its first-ever Youth Jazz Intensive that will shine the spotlight on young Albertan Musicians.
Tickets can be purchased at medicinehatjazzfest.com. Music enjoyers under the age of 25 can attend any JazzFest event for $20 as the festival continues its Youth Ticket pricing to encourage young people to come out and enjoy the high-quality live music throughout the city.
